Fairy Tern (Gygis alba) or Angel Tern

The fairy tern (Gygis alba), also known as the white tern, is a globally distributed species found across tropical regions. These elegant birds are often observed in pairs, engaging in impressive aerial displays during courtship.

In the Seychelles, fairy terns breed throughout the year. While small numbers successfully breed on islands where alien predators are present, predator-free islands such as Cousine provide a safe haven for larger breeding populations. Cousine Island is privileged to host approximately 800-1,000 breeding pairs at any given time.

Unlike many other nesting seabirds in Seychelles that regurgitate food for their chicks, fairy terns lay a single egg directly onto a branch without constructing a nest. They feed their fluffy grey-brown chicks whole fresh fish, which they bring back from the ocean in their bills. It's a remarkable sight to witness adults returning to the island with up to six small fish lined up in their bills, demonstrating their dedication to nurturing their offspring.

The presence of fairy terns on Cousine Island is not only a testament to their adaptability but also highlights the island's role in providing a secure environment for breeding seabirds. By maintaining predator-free conditions and supporting conservation efforts, Cousine Island ensures that these graceful birds can continue to thrive in their natural habitat, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the Seychelles.